Illegal Eviction Procedures in Arizona

Arizona landlords must
follow specific rules and procedures when evicting a tenant (see the article How
Evictions Work: What Renters Need to Know, on this site). The state forbids landlords from taking the
law into their own hands. Examples of illegal “self-help” evictions include
changing the locks, removing the front door, or turning off the heat or
electricity—all of which may be the basis for a tenant suing a landlord. Arizona tenants may sue for two months’
rent or twice the actual
damages, whichever is greater. If a tenant elects to terminate the
lease, landlord must return the entire security deposit.

If you decide to sue
your landlord for an illegal eviction, check Arizona statutes (you’ll find Arizona
rules prohibiting self-help evictions at Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 33-1367).
See the Laws and Legal Research
section of this site for advice on reading statutes.